In the midst of ongoing industry cost-cutting and negotiations between the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Teamsters Local 399, and the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers, a recent Unity Rally served as a reminder of the challenges faced by below-the-line workers in Hollywood. The rally emphasized the determination of union leaders to fight for better benefits and pensions for their members and their readiness to take action if negotiations fall short. However, amidst the passionate speeches and calls for unity, the elephant in the room remained largely unaddressed: the increasing contraction in the industry that has resulted in limited job opportunities for crew members.

According to industry insiders, the wave of series cancellations, combined with tightened budgets and a scarcity of pilot seasons, has led to a significant decline in below-the-line jobs. Corey Moore, the business agent for IATSE Local 80, representing motion picture grips, crafts service, first aid employees, and warehouse workers, expressed disappointment at the lack of expected production growth after the resolution of previous strikes. He attributed this stagnation to productions relocating to other regions with more favorable tax incentives and the potential threat of stoppages during upcoming negotiations. While there has been some improvement, it hasn't been as rapid as desired.

Nelson Coates, president of the Art Directors Guild, pointed out that studio consolidation has played a role in the contraction. With studios reducing the number of competing projects, the industry has experienced a significant contraction. The fallout from previous contract negotiations with writers and actors has also negatively impacted below-the-line workers, leading to extended periods of unemployment. Many members of the industry, even with considerable experience, have struggled to find work. The situation has been further exacerbated by a slowdown in the industry following the strikes.

The grievances expressed by industry professionals are echoed by those on the ground. Joseph McDonough, a second assistant cameraman, worked just 47 days in total in 2023 despite actively networking and reaching out to connections. He described 2023 as a "zero year," where the industry came to a standstill. He and his colleagues have yet to witness a return to normalcy in 2024, despite hopes for improvement.

The lack of opportunities has left many crew members desperate for work. Longtime members of Local 399 have reported a significant decline in regular gigs, with some only picking up sporadic work here and there. The great pay and benefits associated with union work, when available, have been a lifeline for many, preventing them from leaving the industry altogether. However, the prolonged contraction has left even the most experienced workers considering alternative career paths.

The recent Unity Rally aimed to inspire hope and solidarity among below-the-line workers, but the grim reality of the industry's contraction has left many concerned about a potential work stoppage and the consequences it would have for their livelihoods. Frustrated crew members have taken to online platforms to express their worries, questioning the viability of remaining in the industry and the potential for jobs to be outsourced abroad.

Lindsay Dougherty, a representative of the local union, acknowledged the contraction but noted that it is not exclusive to Hollywood or Los Angeles, attributing it to a nationwide and worldwide trend. Dougherty mentioned the burst of the streaming bubble caused by excessive production in previous years as a contributing factor.

As industry members anxiously await the outcome of negotiations and hope for a resurgence in production, the current state of affairs remains discouraging for below-the-line workers. With uncertain prospects on the horizon, the future of the industry hangs in the balance, leaving individuals like Joseph McDonough contemplating drastic career changes at a time when they long to contribute to the films they are so passionate about.